Philly Leader

Legislators have proposed bills in the House and Senate that would appropriate $2 million in state funds to assist resettlement of Ukrainian refugees in Pennsylvania.

According to a release by Gov. Tom Wolf, Senate Bill 1176 is sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Williams and House Bill 2380 is sponsored by Reps. Rob Matzie and Kevin Boyle. It aligns with Gov. Wolf’s ongoing efforts to help Ukraine and sever ties with Russia financially. Pennsylvania has the second most Ukrainian residents at 122,000 and is also the home of a variety of Ukrainian owned businesses.

“Pennsylvania was founded on the ideals of peace, tolerance, and safety for all people, and we will continue to model these ideals and be a welcoming home for any who seek safe refuge in the United States,” Gov. Wolf said. “I am pleased to see the introduction of this legislation in our General Assembly to support necessary efforts in resettling Ukrainian refugees. This proposed funding will allow the commonwealth the flexibility to invest in refugee services quickly and efficiently, and ultimately provide a safe haven for these individuals.”

The $2 million in funds would go to the Department of Human Services Refugee Resettlement Program’s providers. It would be used to expand services for refugees to find and retain employment and achieve self-sufficiency.

It would also help integrate refugees back into their communities by securing housing; targeting English as a second language education; helping develop occupational skills and training for jobs; and aiding with certification for refugees who have degrees that are not transferable in the U.S.

Sen. Williams said the first Ukrainian refugees have begun to arrive in Pennsylvania and the agencies need the support.

“Over 4 million people have fled Ukraine, leaving behind almost everything as they escaped Russia’s unprovoked attack on their homes and way of life,” said Sen. Williams. “The New Neighbors Fund created by SB 1176 will allow our agencies on the ground to serve these refugees and meet their immediate needs as they arrive here in Pennsylvania and begin to heal and rebuild from the trauma they’ve experienced.”

Reps. Matzie pointed out that this isn’t a crisis affecting complete strangers, but rather their neighbors’ families. He said this is a war that is touching the Pennsylvania communities and it is time to open doors and hearts to those seeking refuge. Boyle agreed with Matzie and expressed his pride in the legislature they put together.

“Pennsylvania has a legacy of welcoming people fleeing oppression, and the same holds true now. I’m proud to support a plan to help Ukrainians who resettle in our communities,” said Rep. Boyle.

This is the most recent step in the ongoing effort by Pennsylvania government figures to push for assisting Ukraine and cutting off ties to Russia. Also, recently the Wolf Administration joined the Pennsylvania State Police and Capitol Police to donate body armor to those helping with humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.